In Case You Missed It: Key Quotes from CO’s Panel Event

Commercial Observer’s Owners Magazine panel this morning at 7 World Trade Center drew several of the headline personalities who are remaking Lower Manhattan.

And, since people with boldfaced names rarely refrain from saying bold things, we’ve collected five observations from the movers and shakers in attendance.

Norman Sturner of Murray Hill Properties.

Norman Sturner, president and CEO of Murray Hill Properties

On who will be the next big tenant to relocate downtown:

“We’re contracted to buy 180 Maiden Lane [in a joint venture with Clarion Partners for a reported $465 million]. Since I have 800,000 feet of vacancy, if you could tell me who it is, I’d be interested to talk to them myself.”

Andrew Essex, Droga5 (Emily Anne Epstein)

Andrew Essex, vice chairman, Droga5

On the appeal of downtown to his company:

“With all due respect to Madison Avenue, when you have 300 or so 20-somethings who live in Brooklyn, you don’t want to be in Midtown. Every morning, by the way, if you want to see some tattooed hipsters coming across the water, take the 8:40 [ferry].”

Dennis Friedrich.

Dennis Friedrich, CEO, Brookfield Property Partners

On Brookfield Place, the World Trade Center’s neighbor:

“It had been more of a corporate fortress. We felt it was important to create a different kind of environment.”